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As we start to plan our return to the natural beauty that is St Ives, I had to share our plans with you. It will be our first family holiday of the year and gosh are we excited. After visiting Cornwall since 2018, it is now a fixed date in our diary each year. Usually we stay on the outskirts for the tranquillity, last year we changed that as we fell in love with St Ives on a day trip.
Friends said we would fall in love, that we did and more. We instantly booked to return this year. They were right and I can’t see us booking anywhere else anytime soon. With its vibrant atmosphere, clear blue water and picturesque coastline what’s not to love and adore. The peace and tranquillity is there if you know where to look and the hustle and excitement is in abundance. Its the perfect blend.
I think you all know what a huge part of your family Bobby is, after all this is his holiday. So, after many messages from a few followers on Insta, who seemed so sure that St Ives wasn’t dog friendly and that we were making a mistake. Well, I am here to tell you otherwise. I thought I would share where we stayed, what we did, how we managed the restrictions and after visiting for the first time in May 2025, why we are returning. In truth I would like to keep this cottage a secret. I think you’ll agree once I share it.
In-between Cottage Review – St Ives
Wherever you choose to stay in St Ives, you’ll find miles upon miles of epic coastline and countryside just waiting to be explored with your four legged friend. If like us and you want to be within minutes of the harbour and beach then the cottages dotted around the cobbled streets and hidden in and around the harbour and many beaches are where you should start.
What did we like about the In-Between Cottage?
The In-between Cottage, located on the infamous ‘Digey’ that connects the harbour and Porthmeor beach is where we stayed and loved. Located in the stunning town of St Ives – which I can only describe as a picturesque fishing harbour and seaside town surrounded by a quartet of golden beaches. We were truly spoiled each morning. That was one of my favourite things, waking early and taking a peaceful morning stroll around the harbour, stopping for coffee and pastries and choosing a different beach each day to explore, just Bob, Mr H and I.
Situated on one of the most famous roads in St Ives (don’t let that put you off), sophisticated and cosy chic in design, with a shower at the back of the property for sandy paws and a dedicated space for storing wetsuits, paddle boards and more. There is a family friendly atmosphere oozing out of the people who have designed and run the Cottage. Also, it is of course dog friendly. Don’t be put off by being located on the Digey, it’s busy in the daytime with passers-by, yet peaceful morning and night.
Location, Location, Location
This is a part of the South coast that you do not want to miss. If a dog friendly cottage and Town is what you are looking for, then look no further. And if this one isn’t quite right for you, hop over to the Orange Roofs website. Many worry about restrictions on the beaches for dogs. However after spending a week in this gorgeous cove, the timings are manageable and not on all beaches.
St Ives has a charming, almost fairy-tale like, atmosphere with narrow cobbled streets. They are filled with independent shops, art galleries, and traditional Cornish pubs. Beyond the beaches and galleries, St Ives boasts activities like surfing, paddleboarding and boat trips. Take a wander over to Carbis Bay and explore the surrounding coastline.
Some say it’s a tourist trap. I will admit that during peak hours it thrives. I can honestly say that the mornings and evenings are the most enjoyable. Peaceful, free from crowds and some of the best I have spent in Cornwall.
Where did we eat when staying in St Ives?
It can get crowded in peak season, the trick is to book your restaurants in advance. Plan your parking and enjoy the beauty and tranquil vibes of St Ives pre 11 am before the crowds arrive. As I write this post in March, our restaurants are booked. We fell short a couple of times last year and spent some time waiting. Not this year. I can highly recommend booking a Pod at Porthmeor Beach Cafe. They are heated and offer the most incredible view of the sunset. You can read about some of our favourites places to eat in this post.
And there we have it, our thoughts on the gorgeous In-between Cottage Review – St Ives.